Home manicure

We all like well cared for beautiful nails but not all of us can afford the high price tag that the salons charge. Why not do your own? Below is my step by step guide on how to give yourself a fabulous manicure in the comfort of your own home at a fraction of the cost.

Step1 Remove nail polish

It is very important to remove any old nail polish to start a fresh clean layer, just like cleansing your face. I use nail polish remover and cotton pads. Try and use a mild remover and unless you use it once a month, don't use a nail polish remover with acetone in it. Acetone might make removing the nail polish easier, but it can damage your nails

Step 2 Cut and file nails.

I use nail clippers to trim your nails just like your hair this will encourage new stronger nails. Using a nail file, file the nail gently in one direction to create a smooth and clean shape. Excessive force or filing back and forth will weaken the nails and cause them to break.

Step 3 Push back or remove cuticles and buff nails.

Remove the cuticles, they not firmly attached and should come off easily. I use a cuticle remover tool it is so easy to use and gives me fast results without ages of pushing back with the rubber end. Using a nail buffer, buff the surface of the nail to smooth out ridges.

Step 4 Soak nails

Get a bowl or fill the sink luke-warm water. Soak your hands for a few minutes. The water will loosen dirt, dead skin, and any dust left over from filing and buffing. Gently scrape under your nails if necessary to remove.

Step 6 Moisturise

Use any lotion or hand cream and massage it into your hands, concentrate around the nails and knuckles.  Leave this to soak in for about 30 mins, remove any excess with a towel.

Step 7 Prepare and base coat

Nail polish will not stick to the nails with moisturiser on them, so take a Q-tip dipped in nail polish remover and quickly wipe over the nails to remove the lotion. Apply the  base coat.  This will help the polish to last longer, and keep the colour from staining your nails.

Step 8 Polish

Choose a nail polish that you really like. Roll the nail polish bottle between your hands for about 10 seconds to make sure it is mixed. Start painting your nails with a thin layer. Slowly paint a vertical stripe down the centre of your nail, followed by another stripe on either side. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the polish to dry. After the first coat has dried fully, apply a second coat.

Step 9 Top coat

To complete our manicure apply a clear top coat for a protective layer over the polish to help it last longer and in good condition.